If time or space constraints are an issue, consider a monetary donation to a local animal shelter instead. An internet search for the name of a city plus “animal shelter” should bring up a local shelter or animal welfare organization’s website. Many of these organizations accept donations online.

Physical donations, both monetary and items that the shelter lists on their website, are another way to contribute. Many of these organizations will host events like pet adoption days where donations can be dropped off. Pet shelters run on the generous donations of volunteers, and often need items that many people may already have available, like gently used towels or extra dog toys. Make sure to check on an organization’s website or call ahead to see what they need the most.

If someone has time but limited space in their home, shelters are always in need of extra volunteers. Shelters can use skilled volunteers in many areas, such as website developers and bookkeepers. But, volunteers can do simpler jobs as well, like a few hours on a weekend at a pet adoption event cleaning cages or socializing nervous animals. These organizations wouldn’t be able to run without people with a variety of skills.

For those who have space to take in extra animals, being a pet foster parent can be extremely rewarding. Many of the animals that shelters take in may need extra hands-on time. There may be ill pets or animals that need to be socialized before they can be adopted. Fosters help provide this extra care while also freeing up space at the shelter for other pets. There may be certain guidelines and requirements to becoming a pet foster parent. Check on a local shelter’s website or give them a call for more information.

If none of the above options are available, then turn to the power of social media. Follow and share a local animal welfare organization’s posts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to help spread the word. The more people these shelters can reach, the more families can find forever homes for the dogs and cats available for adoption.